Redtail Rise Phoenix

Redd did not comment on Masquerade’s insistence, but internally, she knew argument did not matter in the end.  The truth of it was one she had known a long time; Wealda was only as strong as her pack.  This is why any but Avicus would have failed.  This is why it was not their choice in the true end.  If Masquerade wanted it, Redd could do nothing, for the pack knew and respected them deeply.  If New Snow wanted it, Redd and Masquerade could do nothing, for her children and mate would support her claim and the Rise would fracture in a way that truly destroyed it.

It would be all of them.

The hunt lead approached.  Redd turned to him as Masquerade explained, but she knew his ways.  If she truly intended to lead then she needed to know of his acceptance.  She would do the same with his mate when the time arrived.

Redd approached him, tail flagged, head raised, one tooth displayed over dark lips.  With a small rumble she awaited his reaction, tail lightly moving with her expectation.  Would he follow her as he had her mother?  Or did he see her the lesser choice?